After the King’s announcement, which comes a month after his 79th birthday, Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo made an announcement to the nation.

The palace confirmed on Wednesday morning an announcement would be made, they said in a statement: “The core council of ministers has convened in the presence of the king. The king will speak to the people at 18:00 via a radio and television address.”

The Belgium Royal Family experience high approval ratings in the country, and son Prince Philippe and wife Princess Mathilde are hugely popular. It is expected the country will welcome the couple to become their next King and Queen.

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